All Saints Church: Recent Episodes
All Saints Church
Here's a question some of you may already be asking, maybe not out loud: why not just keep doing what we've been doing? All Saints has a good life. Why change anything?That's a fair question, and I'm not going to rush past it.Join us for a look into what All Saints can become.
How can we know the resurrection actually happened?A listener sent me that question. They’ve read the research and considered the arguments. They want to believe. They just can’t seem to get all the way there.Maybe you understand that.The first disciples did. When Jesus appeared to them, they were frightened and confused. Some of them doubted what they were seeing. Jesus didn’t criticize them or demand immediate certainty. He stayed with them.There are good historical reasons to believe Jesus rose from the dead. But no argument can eliminate every question. You don’t have to force yourself to feel certain or pretend to believe more than you do.Maybe faith begins with a more honest prayer:“Jesus, if you are alive, meet me here.”This week, we’re diving into the Doubters Mailbox.We would love it if you would subscribe to our YouTube page: believedoubtseek.org
We often hear 1 Corinthians 13 at weddings. It feels warm, poetic, and inspiring.But that's not why Paul wrote it.He wasn't describing romance. He was confronting a church filled with gifted, successful, ambitious people whose character hadn't caught up with their talent.Sound familiar?Our culture celebrates achievement, influence, productivity, and being right. But God is far more interested in who we are becoming than what we accomplish.It's possible to be successful and still be cynical. Generous and still self-centered. Busy serving God while keeping your heart at a distance.Biblical love isn't about being "nice." It's the supernatural work of God's grace transforming us from the inside out—making us more patient, humble, forgiving, and free.This week on the All Saints Podcast, we explore why one of the Bible's most familiar passages may also be one of its most challenging.Join us.A place for all who believe, doubt, and seek.Check out our YouTube Channel!
Was Jesus a Democrat or a Republican?He wasn't either, and he turned down every chance to be.Our podcast this week is looking at the question that actually got Jesus killed (not the one trending on your feed): what kind of King did he come to be? Because once you answer that, the Constitution, the culture war, and the fight in your group chat all start looking different.We're not telling you how to vote. We're not telling you God's above all this either. We're talking about Jesus — the King who kept refusing the crown.We invite you to join us with your questions.
It's one of the defining questions of our time.We live in a world shaped by war, political division, AI, endless information, and growing skepticism. We question headlines, social media, institutions—even each other. Everyone seems to have an agenda. So where do we turn? In Acts 1:8, Jesus doesn't tell his followers to become more persuasive, influential, or better at controlling the narrative. Instead, he gives them a promise:"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you..."The answer to our anxious age isn't found in louder voices or stronger arguments. It's found in lives transformed by the Spirit of God. This week on the All Saints Podcast, we'll explore why the Holy Spirit is still the Church's greatest source of hope, courage, wisdom, and unity—and why the Spirit continues to create communities where people who believe, doubt, and seek can discover the presence of Christ.Join us as we ask the question that matters now more than ever:Who can we trust? Convoy of Hope: Venezuelahttps://convoyofhope.org/
There is a time to plant. And there is a time to uproot. Most of us don't like the second part.Many people today are questioning the faith they inherited. They're examining long-held beliefs, leaving churches, and wondering if there's still a place for them in God's story. Some call it deconstruction. Others call it a crisis. But what if seasons of uprooting aren't always signs of failure?What if God has always worked through disruption? In Ephesians 3, Paul describes a mystery that shattered centuries of assumptions about who belonged to God's family. The walls came down. A new kind of community emerged. Maybe that's a word for our generation. Maybe the church is not disappearing.Join us as we explore why seasons of questioning can become seasons of deeper faith, why the church may be far more relational and expansive than we've imagined, and why the mystery Paul describes still has the power to reshape our lives today. A place for all who believe, doubt, and seek.Convoy of Hope - Venezuela relief: https://convoyofhope.org/Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes%203%3A1-15&version=NIVEphesians 3:1-15 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%20%203%3A1-15&version=NIV
Blessed Are the Weak? A Kingdom Manifesto for an Age of PowerMatthew 5We live in a culture obsessed with power.Be strong and successful. Defeat your opponents.Then Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount and says:"Blessed are the poor in spirit." "Blessed are those who mourn." "Blessed are the meek."What if the people Jesus calls blessed are the very people our culture overlooks? What if the Kingdom of God operates by an entirely different set of values than the kingdoms of this world?This week, we'll explore Jesus' Kingdom Manifesto and discover why humility, repentance, mercy, and peacemaking are not signs of weakness—they are signs of spiritual maturity.In a world captivated by power, Jesus invites us to a different way.A place for all who believe, doubt, and seek.
In this episode, our guest, Ron Herms, looks at the issues facing American Christians in America. Why does so much of American Christianity seem disconnected from the teachings of Jesus?In this episode of the All Saints Podcast, I sit down with biblical scholar Ron Herms for a wide-ranging conversation about empire, power, Christian nationalism, apocalyptic literature, and the church's role in our cultural moment.Together we explore why books like Daniel and Revelation were written, what the Bible means by "empire," how apocalyptic literature functions as resistance literature, and why the early followers of Jesus understood faithfulness very differently than many modern expressions of Christianity.We also tackle some difficult and timely questions:• Why are Christians so fascinated with the end times?• How did Christian Zionism become so influential in American religious life?• What does the Bible actually say about power, leadership, and faithfulness?• How should followers of Jesus respond to nationalism, empire, and political polarization?• Is there another way beyond fear, violence, and culture wars?At the heart of this conversation is a simple but profound challenge: What if Jesus calls us not to dominate the world, but to faithfully bear witness within it?This is an honest, thoughtful, and deeply relevant conversation for anyone wrestling with faith, politics, power, and what it means to follow Jesus today.Have a question? More info? Check out: https://www.believedoubtseek.org/ronald-hermsA place for all who believe, doubt, and seek.
Many people have walked away from faith not because they stopped caring about truth, but because they grew tired of certainty being used as a weapon.Too often, Christianity becomes about having the right answers, winning arguments, or correcting people who disagree. But Jesus seemed far more interested in honesty than performance. The religious leaders in John's Gospel were certain. Certain enough to condemn. Certain enough to throw stones. Yet Jesus turned the spotlight away from the accused and onto the accusers. What if the truth Jesus offers isn't a tool for judging others, but a mirror that reveals our own need for grace? The truth that sets us free is not an ideology, a political position, or a list of doctrines. It's a person. And that means faith isn't about pretending we have no doubts. It's about bringing our doubts, fears, questions, failures, and hopes into the presence of the One who can handle them. Maybe freedom begins the moment we stop performing certainty and start practicing honesty.You don’t need to fake certainty to belong. Bring your questions. Bring your doubts. Being your true self to Jesus. Have you ever felt judged more for your questions than welcomed into a conversation about them?
Everyone wanted Jesus to pick a side.The Pharisees wanted Him to oppose Rome. The Herodians wanted Him to support it.Instead, Jesus shattered their categories."Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."His kingdom wasn't built through political power, cultural dominance, or winning elections. It was revealed through self-giving love, enemy-love, sacrifice, and a cross. What if our deepest political problem isn't "them"—but the ways we've given our allegiance to Caesar instead of Christ? The politics of Jesus are far more disruptive than left or right.Mark 12:13-17
A lot of people are deconstructing their faith right now. Not because they stopped caring about truth, but because what they inherited often felt hollow, performative, guilt ridden and emotionally exhausting.If Christianity only produces fear, image management, culture wars, anxiety, and the pressure to constantly prove ourselves, something is deeply broken.Jesus didn’t say the world would know His followers by how religious they appeared. He pointed to fruit.Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Gentleness. Wholeness.Jesus’s message wasn’t about pretending, spiritual performance, certainty, or trying to defend God from the culture. His message was about transformation, not transaction.The real question isn’t: “Do I still believe all the same things?”The deeper question is: “Is this way of life actually transforming me into the person God intended?” Galatians 5:16-26
We live in a world filled with war, anxiety, injustice, abuse, grief, and unanswered prayers. And for many people, suffering is not just painful—it becomes the reason they walk away from faith entirely.Because if God is all-powerful, why doesn’t He stop evil? And if He can stop it but chooses not to—can He really be good? This week, we wrestle honestly with one of the hardest questions in Christianity: the problem of evil and suffering.But Christianity does not offer shallow clichés or easy answers. At the center of the Christian story is not a detached philosopher—but a crucified God. A God who entered betrayal, grief, violence, abandonment, and death itself.The claim of Christianity is not: “You will avoid suffering.” The claim is: “God entered it.” For those deconstructing faith, doubting Christianity, or simply exhausted by life—perhaps the invitation is not to return to performative religion, but to encounter Jesus beneath the wreckage. Because suffering may be real. But according to the resurrection, it is not final. 1 Peter 1: 3-12#Faith #Deconstruction #Suffering #Christianity #Doubt #Hope #Jesus #Spirituality #Church #BeliefDoubtSeek
We obsess over control. Career. Politics. Money. Relationships. The future.We are told: “Your future is whatever you make it.” But what if that pressure is crushing us?Proverbs presents a terrifying and liberating paradox: Your choices matter deeply… and yet God is not absent from the chaos. You are responsible. But you are not alone. You are free. But you are not abandoned. Even the storms you never saw coming are not outside the sovereignty of God. And maybe the real problem is not that God is silent— maybe it’s that we want guidance without surrender. What if God’s guidance is less about giving you a map… and more about transforming you into a wise person who can walk faithfully through uncertainty? The question is not: “Can I control my future?” The question is: “Can I trust God when I can’t?”Proverbs 11:3; 12:5,15; 15:22; 16:1-4,9,25,33; 21:5
We’re living in a moment where every headline screams the same message: hit back harder.In the Iran conflict, retaliation is expected. Escalation is applauded. Leaders are measured by how forcefully they respond, not how wisely they restrain.But what if the real crisis isn’t just geopolitical… What if it’s our addiction to anger?Ancient wisdom dares to say something almost unthinkable in today’s world: Not just control your anger—but do good to those who oppose you.That sounds naïve. Weak. Even dangerous. And yet—what if the strongest move isn’t escalation, but restraint? What if the most radical act in a culture of outrage is gentleness? Because here’s the tension: We admire mercy in theory… But demand revenge in reality.So the question isn’t just about nations. It’s about us.When you’re wronged, misunderstood, attacked— Do you escalate… or transform the moment?In a world fueled by outrage, what would it look like to become a person of slow anger?And if someone chose mercy over retaliation today… Would you call them wise—or weak?Proverbs 14:29-30; 15:1,18; 19:19; 16:32; 24:29; 25:21-22
Proverbs 12:25; 13:12; 14:10,13,30; 15:4,13-14; 16:2; 18:14; 28:1The world currently feels unpredictable—wars, economic pressures, relentless noise, and a constant flood of fear, outrage, and uncertainty. But the true question is—what’s happening inside you? Because chaos isn’t just external; it’s influencing your heart, your mind, your emotions. We live in an era where anxiety seems normal, where people may appear fine outwardly but are secretly losing their joy, clarity, and strength within. Here’s a hard truth: you can have everything going perfectly on the outside and still be crumbling inside. So, how do you cultivate a resilient inner life in a world that constantly destabilizes you? This message challenges you to confront the hidden crisis within—pointing to a deeper kind of healing that many overlook. What if the real issue isn’t your circumstances but what’s happening in your spirit? Jesus says ‘ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.’ (John 14:27) What does it look like for you to get your inner peace from Jesus?
We live in a world where being loud is often mistaken for being right. Opinions travel faster than truth, confidence replaces competence, and wisdom gets drowned out by noise. But if we’re honest—it’s not just “out there.” It’s in us too.The Bible doesn’t define a fool by intelligence, but by posture: a refusal to listen, to be corrected, to admit, “I might be wrong.” And in a culture built on certainty and self-definition, that kind of humility feels almost… foolish.Then Jesus steps in and flips everything.What looks like wisdom to the world—power, control, image—He exposes as empty.What looks like foolishness—humility, surrender, the cross—He reveals as the truest form of wisdom. The real question isn’t if you’re a fool.It’s whose fool are you becoming?Are you shaping your life around noise, pride, and self-definition?Or are you willing to look foolish to the world in order to become truly wise?"Are you willing to become a fool in the eyes of the world to become wise before God?"
Episode #189You can believe all the right things about Easter… and still keep it at a distance.Martha did. She believed in resurrection—just not right now. But Jesus steps into her grief and doesn’t offer a timeline. He offers Himself. “I am the resurrection and the life.”Not an event. Not someday. A person—present, right in the middle of what feels dead.This changes everything. Faith can speak even in disappointment: “even now…”Easter isn’t just something to understand. It’s someone to encounter. So the question isn’t: Do you believe in resurrection? It’s: Do you trust the One standing in front of you?Where in your life are you waiting for God to act…when He may already be present?
Episode #188On Palm Sunday, the crowd shouted Hosanna—but they were expecting a different kind of king. One with power, control, and quick solutions. Instead, Jesus arrived on a donkey—quiet, humble, and completely at odds with their expectations. What happens when the King we want isn’t the King who shows up? This message explores how we still project our hopes onto leaders today—and how Jesus refuses to be reduced to our agendas. John 12:12-19
Episode #187Luke 23:32-43Everyone at the cross had an opinion about Jesus.The religious mocked Him. The powerful dismissed Him. One criminal demanded something from Him. The other surrendered everything to Him. Same moment. Same Jesus. Two completely different responses.And not much has changed.We all want a version of Jesus that fits our worldview… our politics…our needs.A Jesus who makes sense. A Jesus who comes through. A Jesus we can control. But the real Jesus doesn’t fit neatly into any category. He confronts. He disrupts. He refuses to be used.And at some point, we all face the same question: Are we asking Jesus to fix our lives… or are we surrendering our lives to Him? The cross still doesn’t make sense. And following Jesus might make you look like a fool.But it might also be the only way to truly live.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch
Episode #186Jesus once made a shocking statement: "Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."In a world obsessed with control, achievement, and proving ourselves, Jesus points to something completely different. Children don’t earn love, negotiate belonging, or perform their way into acceptance—they simply receive.The kingdom of God isn’t something we conquer with knowledge, power, or spiritual performance. It’s something we open our hands to. What if the biggest barrier to experiencing God isn’t doubt…but the fact that we’ve forgotten how to trust?What do you think Jesus meant by childlike faith?Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
Episode #185 - Lent invites us to slow down and reflect on the words of Jesus—especially the ones that challenge us. In this episode, we explore the Parable of the Two Sons in Gospel of Matthew 21:28–32, where Jesus makes a startling claim: the people society looks down on may enter the kingdom of God before the religious insiders.Through this simple story, Jesus exposes a deeper truth about the human heart. One son says the right things but never follows through; the other begins in rebellion but ultimately changes direction. The issue isn’t appearances or moral track records—it’s repentance.Join us as we reflect on how this parable challenges our assumptions about goodness, grace, and what it really means to follow Jesus.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #QuestioningFaith
Episode #184 - The world feels unstable. Elections, wars, markets, outrage cycles — every headline dares you to panic. And beneath the noise is a quiet assumption: it’s all on us. If we don’t control it, fix it, predict it — everything falls apart.But what if our anxiety is really a craving for omniscience? A refusal to admit we are not God? You are not sovereign over the world. You are not even sovereign over tomorrow.And that’s not terrifying — it’s freeing to say, I don’t know. Grace reminds us: history is not resting on your shoulders. So breathe. Act faithfully. Love boldly. And trust the One who actually holds the future. James 4:13-17Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
Title: Anything in Jesus' Name? Really? John 14:12-14Episode #183 Can prayer really change anything? Or are we just talking into the air? Have you ever wondered whether prayer makes a difference? In John 14, Jesus makes a staggering promise: “Ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” But what does that actually mean? This sermon confronts the myths, manipulations, and misunderstandings around prayer—and invites us into something deeper.Prayer is not control. It’s surrender. It’s not certainty without doubt. It’s faith that brings doubt to God. It’s not getting everything we want. It’s participating in what Jesus is doing in the world.If prayer were simply God saying “yes” to everything, it would terrify us. Instead, prayer is how the power of Christ meets our weakness—and how love governs every yes, no, and wait.
Title:More Than BeliefJames draws a hard line: what you believe must become who you are. Faith isn’t rule-keeping—it’s relationship.When love takes root, obedience stops feeling like obligation and starts looking like joy.Humble yourself. Come near. Not to earn love—but because you already have it.What you hold closest will shape you.Hold Christ close—and watch courage and humility grow.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
Why Our Certainty Is Making Us StupidEpisode #181 We don’t lack information—we lack wisdom. James says real wisdom isn’t loud, defensive, or obsessed with being right. It shows up in humility, peace, and a life that actually holds together. When certainty replaces curiosity and pride replaces awe, we stop seeing reality—and each other—clearly.Wisdom begins when we loosen our grip on being right and let God re-order what we thought we already knew. James 3:13–18Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch
The Poor and the Immigrant Are Not a Side IssueEpisode #180 James refuses to let faith stay abstract. He drags it into real bodies, empty stomachs, and vulnerable lives. To follow Jesus is to deliberately move toward the poor—not as projects, not as problems, but as neighbors made in God’s image. Words without action don’t heal. Spiritual concern without material care misses the gospel. Mercy triumphs over judgment—or faith collapses under its own weight.James 2:5-17Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDS Leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #poor #immigration
Episode #179 James doesn’t sugarcoat it. Spiritual growth isn’t about having stronger opinions—it’s about having a humbler posture.In a culture that rewards instant outrage and loud certainty, James offers a disruptive path: Be quick to listen. Slow to speak. Slow to anger.Why? Because anger doesn’t produce the kind of life God desires—it only protects our pride.Real change doesn’t come from knowing more Bible verses or winning arguments. It comes from letting God’s Word confront us, contradict us, and reshape us from the inside out.The Word isn’t just information to collect. It’s something planted—alive, growing, challenging.If Scripture never unsettles you, never pushes back, never asks you to change… you may not be listening long enough for it to do its work.Spiritual maturity begins where humility takes root.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
Episode #178 James doesn’t let us hide.Real faith isn’t what you post, attend, or defend.It’s what you do when no one’s watching—and who you refuse to overlook.Care for the vulnerable is not optional.Holiness is not negotiable.Choose one without the other, and you’ve missed it.James 1–2 isn’t a political position—it’s a diagnostic test.If you rank people, chase status, or ignore the poor, you’ve forgotten who you are.The Bible doesn’t start with do better.It starts with remembering who you are.Being comes first.Doing follows.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
Episode 177: Wisdom or Escape?We’re living in a moment that keeps praying, “Get me out of this.” Out of anxiety. Out of division. Out of pain.But James asks a harder question: Do you have the wisdom for this?Wisdom doesn’t promise control, certainty, or instant happiness. It forms people who can stay grounded when life refuses to cooperate. In an age addicted to quick fixes and outrage, wisdom is what keeps us human— deep instead of fragile, steady instead of reactive, faithful instead of hollowed out.The question isn’t whether suffering is coming. It’s whether it will break you… or make you unshakeable.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline
The book of James is wisdom for when life falls apart. Echoing Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Sermon on the Mount, James asks a hard question: What does real faith look like when suffering comes?Written by James—the brother of Jesus—this letter carries unusual weight. He knew Jesus up close, once doubted him, then encountered the risen Christ and was transformed into a leader of the early church and a martyr. His words about joy and perseverance aren’t abstract—they’re lived.In this episode, we explore James’s challenging call to “count it all joy” when trials come—not because pain is good, but because endurance forms humility, freedom, compassion, and faith. In a culture obsessed with happiness now, James invites us to stand our ground and discover the kind of joy that only grows through perseverance.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSPlease leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch
Episode #175 - Christmas isn’t just a sweet story—it’s a shocking claim. The ideal became real. God took on flesh, tasted death, and wasn’t ashamed to call us family. In a broken world where nothing feels as it should, we now see Jesus—fully human, fully God—our Champion in suffering, our hope in the waiting, our invitation into costly love.This is the incarnation. And if it’s true, it doesn’t just change what we believe—it changes how we live.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #advent2025 #Advent
Episode 174: What if Christmas isn’t a cozy, sentimental tale… but a disruptive truth about a God who became homeless to bring us home? Isaiah 35 promises a world made whole—deserts blooming, fear dissolving, bodies healed, joy overflowing. But that restoration began in the most unlikely place: a feed trough. Jesus entered our exile so we could finally come home. This season isn’t about escaping into nostalgia. It’s about waking up to a God who steps into our alienation, breaks the power of meaninglessness, and invites us into a life that actually fits our soul. Christmas is the beginning of our homecoming.Merry Christmas — may hope find you where you are.www.believedoubtseek.orgFollow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSPlease leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus
Episode #173: Advent reminds us that love didn’t enter the world quietly — it broke in. Before we ever reached for God, God’s love was already reaching for us. The star that led people to Jesus still points us to the truth we most need: God’s love isn’t earned. It isn’t fragile. And it isn’t going anywhere. In this episode, we explore why God’s love is hard to accept, why we often resist it, and why it still keeps coming after us. Whether you feel close to God or miles away, this is the love that meets you exactly where you are — and refuses to leave you there.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus #FaithReflections
Episode 172: We talk a lot about hope, but most of us don’t really understand it. Scripture doesn’t treat hope as wishful thinking or emotional optimism—it calls it a life-shaping certainty about a future God has already secured. In Ephesians 1, Paul prays that our hearts would be enlightened to see this hope clearly, because what you believe about tomorrow is already forming how you live today.In this episode, we explore why hope is not a spiritual accessory but the most powerful force shaping your imagination, your resilience, your peace, and your courage. If you’re tired, discouraged, or unsure what the future holds, this conversation is for you.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus #FaithReflections
Episode: 171 - Finding Rest in an Age of Information Overload Matthew 11:28–30We live in a world that never stops talking — constant updates, opinions, and noise. But Jesus still says: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”True peace isn’t found in knowing everything — it’s found in knowing Jesus. When the world demands endless attention, Jesus offers gentle rest for your soul. Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDS Leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast! #AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus
Episode 170: What if being “found out” isn’t something to fear, but the beginning of freedom? In this episode, we explore Jesus’ bold claim to be the Good Shepherd — the One who not only leads His sheep but also became the Lamb who gave His life for them. Discover how grace frees us from control, builds a community of honesty instead of performance, and invites every kind of person to belong.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus #FaithReflections
We live in a culture that treats “absolute truth” as the enemy of freedom — but what if the opposite is true? In Galatians 2, Paul insists that truth isn’t a weapon of control but the doorway to real freedom. The gospel doesn’t crush individuality; it redeems it. When truth stops being oppressive, it starts becoming liberating.Listen now on the All Saints Podcast —Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus #FaithReflections
Is Spiritual Growth the Proof of Knowing God? How do you measure a relationship with God? Is spiritual growth a feeling, a habit, or evidence of transformation? In 2 Peter 1:1-9, we’re invited to grow in grace and knowledge—not by chasing perfection, but by practicing disciplines that awaken us to God’s presence. What if prayer, meditation, and community aren’t religious routines—but portals to genuine encounter? Join us as we explore what it really means to know God and grow in God.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!#AllSaintsCommunity #AllSaintsPodcast #BelieveDoubtSeek #VirtualChurch #FaithOnline #AccessibleFaith #DigitalDiscipleship #FaithConnection #SpiritualFormation #FaithConversations #QuestioningFaith #HonestFaith #FaithAndDoubt #SeekingJesus #FaithReflections
Episode 167: Why God’s love sometimes feels like abandonment? Sometimes love doesn’t feel like comfort—it feels like absence. God often leads His people into the desert, not to destroy them, but to save them. In this episode, we explore why God’s love can feel like abandonment, and how the wilderness becomes the place where false hopes die and real faith begins. When everything familiar fades, you may finally discover the God who never leaves.
Episode 166 - Today we’re exploring one of the most incisive things Jesus ever said: “By their fruits you will know them.”It’s so simple—but it cuts deep. Jesus gives us a way to discern the health of any movement, ideology, or leader—not by how loud their declarations are, or how pious their language sounds, but by what they produce. This isn’t moral policing; it’s spiritual discernment.In our own time, that warning feels especially urgent. Christian nationalism has wrapped itself in Scripture and flags, declaring its mission as God’s. Yet Jesus reminds us not to be fooled by appearances. The true measure of any faith, movement, or person is not in their slogans, but in their fruit.
Episode #165: We live in a world that never stops buzzing, dinging, and demanding our attention. The constant stream of notifications keeps our minds racing but leaves our souls restless. In this episode, we explore the ancient practice of meditation on Scripture—not as an escape, but as a way to anchor ourselves in peace, clarity, and true delight. Discover why hitting pause is more life-giving than any push notification.
Episode 164 - “Thoughts and prayers” aren’t enough. Jesus calls us to a more costly, inconvenient, and tangible love. In this episode, we unpack the parable of the Good Samaritan and explore what it means to move from sentiment to sacrificial action in a world desperate for real neighbors. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Episode #163: The tragedies of the past week have left many of us shaken, fearful, and searching for peace. In this episode, we turn to Scripture’s reminder to cast all our anxieties on God, trusting that we are His personal concern and deeply cared for. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Episode #162 - Many of us struggle with prayer—its consistency, purpose, and whether it truly reaches God. Prayer can feel unnatural, especially in a world that distracts, redefines, or diminishes God. Join us as we explore why prayer matters and how it draws us back to God’s power and presence.
Episode: 161 - Remember those times when you got new clothes and couldn’t wait to show them off to your friends? In our text, Paul uses a word that literally means "clothe." When he says “put on," it’s like putting on a fresh wardrobe—except these clothes are kindness, patience, humility, gentleness, and compassion! Transformation is like swapping out your old outfits for a brand new style—shaping up your character to match God’s radical kindness. We become people who forgive big, love openly, and wear goodness like they were a new fashion trend. So, ready to update your wardrobe with some new fits?Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Colossians 3:18-19 - This text has been used to harm, abuse, and demean women. I define Christian submission as a humble, loyal, loving deference and cooperation, with the ideal being mutual submission. Any demeaning or servile submission to an unkind, selfish man is not aligned with Paul's intentions. That is not what it means to be 'fitting in the Lord' or an expression of Christian marriage. In other words, women and men are encouraged to seek and be in mutually respectful and mutually submissive relationships. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSPlease leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Episode 159: Imagine viewing your relationship with Jesus Christ not as a static connection but as an ongoing dialogue that mirrors the complexity of our daily conversations. We navigate life immersed in a continuous exchange—our experiences, choices, and circumstances filtered through stories that help us find meaning. When we reflect on these myriad conversations, recurring themes inevitably emerge. One universal pursuit stands out: our collective quest to transcend brokenness. We grapple with conflicts and setbacks, recognizing that our personal and worldly realities often fall short of our hopes and aspirations, prompting us to seek deeper understanding and transformation.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Colossians 2:6-15 examines our natural tendency to seek comfort in familiar past experiences when confronted with life's uncertainties. It highlights that during times of existential doubt—such as questioning our purpose, origin, identity, relationships, or future—people instinctively try to fill these voids. Here, it is Jesus who fills our lives with power and wholeness in a way that surpasses anything else. Let’s explore what it truly means to be fully alive in Christ. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast
Two words demand our attention: shadow and substance. Are we content to remain enslaved in the shadow, those good gifts from God pointing to something greater? How blind to dwell in the shadow when we possess the reality, the substance—the living Christ Himself. Every form, every symbol, points to Jesus. Let us come out of the shadow and walk into the light of truth!
If we consider immigration solely through political, economic, or cultural lenses and neglect to view it from a biblical, missional perspective, we risk overlooking how God is actively working through human migration to draw people closer to Himself. This issue is not just about policies or demographics—it's a divine opportunity.
A relationship with Christ can be tough because we resist change. When Jesus starts transforming us, we often say, 'enough,' holding on to some things and pulling away. Growing in faith is challenging—how do we keep turning our lives to Him? What's the secret ingredient?
Countless distractions in our world pull us away from the essential pursuit of deep questions and spiritual growth. We are reminded that we need to focus our lives on the greatness of Jesus Christ. Why should faith be the anchor of our existence? When we center our lives on Jesus, we discover purpose, strength, and true transformation.
The past week witnessed the No Kings protests, with organisers estimating that over 5 million people participated in more than 2,000 planned demonstrations. I recognise that we have a mixed sentiment among our podcast listeners. I support the sentiment of No Kings, except for one aspect. I have one King in my life, and that is the person of Jesus Christ. True Christianity holds that only Jesus, as the ultimate authority, can help us experience true fulfilment. Everything else simply doesn't measure up and tends to pull us away from being our true selves. In contrast, King Jesus helps us uncover our true humanity and our genuine selves. Colossians 1:1-14.Download our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSPlease leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
In today's world, we face numerous boundaries—national, cultural, racial, and religious. While some maintain order, many create divisions that hinder love and truth. The early church experienced similar challenges, notably in Acts 11:1–18, where the gospel transcended the Jewish divide between Jew and Gentile. This story remains relevant today as we navigate modern boundaries regarding immigration, LGBTQ+ issues, and political divides. The Apostle Peter teaches us to rely on the Spirit to become bridge builders rather than gatekeepers, inviting people to experience the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
Is it practical to have unwavering faith in the reality of God? What if doubt, often perceived as a barrier, actually serves as vital support in our spiritual journey? As we develop our faith, might embracing our uncertainties enhance our understanding and strengthen our conviction? How do we navigate doubts? John 20 gives us clues. http://www.believedoubtseek.org
In today’s world, many people seek life coaches to help them tackle challenges, set achievable goals, and live intentionally. However, consider that the most effective guidance may already be accessible to you without any cost: the Holy Spirit. Embracing this divine support can help you overcome hurdles, make significant changes, and find clarity in your life. By inviting this inner guidance, you can experience transformation and receive direction that aligns with your true purpose.Download the App: believedoubtseek.org
Many individuals dedicate their entire lives to seeking love, a pursuit that manifests in various aspects of their daily routines. A profoundly meaningful expression of love can be seen in prioritizing the needs of others, even when it might cause pain to either person at times. Jesus shows us what this looks like in John 15:9-17. My email: bill@believedoubtseek.org
We are looking at character change as it relates to a relationship with Jesus, in John 15. Our hearts are conductive materials, designed to connect us with God. What does it mean to be transformed by a relationship with Jesus? It doesn’t necessarily mean an emotional experience, though it can be. It means that we are grafted in as a branch into the vine, and therefore, we participate in God's divine nature. The Gardener cuts off every branch that does not bear fruit. He prunes the branches that bear fruit so that there is even more fruit. What is the fruit that determines a mechanical or vital attachment to the vine? Join us!
Caring for flowers and plants takes considerable effort, and promoting fruitful growth requires even more. This often involves pruning healthy branches to boost overall bloom, which can be painful for flower lovers like me.Determining which branches to prune can be tough. Similarly, grasping Jesus' message, especially the idea of life's pruning, can be challenging.Jesus uses the grapevine as an analogy. For those unfamiliar with grapevines or vineyards, producing grapes may seem like mere labor. However, understanding the grapevine clarifies Jesus’ comparison to his disciples.
Acts 9:32-43 recounts Peter's visits in modern day Tel Aviv, where he heals a paralyzed man and raises a woman from the dead. Although verses 42 and 43 seem obscure, they reveal the importance of radical hospitality, a theme often overlooked in Acts. Hospitality is essential for all followers of Christ, not just an option. Discover the transformative power of hospitality and its significance in our faith journey.
Pew Research reports that only 36% of Americans have confidence in the Christian Church. This statistic highlights a critical reality that demands a wise and strong response to our post-Christian culture. With declining church attendance, we must evolve how we embody the church. Actively engaging with God’s work around us is crucial, and we need the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us in this journey. Read Acts 1:1-10
Nothing about Easter is routine or predictable. The same can be said about teaching about the Easter story. When we view Christ’s resurrection with an understanding that God continues to be concerned with our world, then our situations lead us to perceive that event with new significance. Because our lives and our encounters with God continually provide possibilities for grasping the implications of the resurrection in new–and renewed–ways, we must not assume that the Easter story always communicates the same message.
Today is Palm Sunday, the day to embrace and welcome Jesus into our lives. It's a reminder for everyone who follows Christ to open their hearts, recognize His kingship, and strive to walk in His grace, even when things get tough. We're navigating some challenging times together. Let’s talk about politics. When I say politics, I mean not just the elected officials and government agencies but also the crucial role each of us plays—our opinions, choices, and how we connect with one another. Let’s remember that our voices matter, and by coming together and understanding each other, we can build a community that truly reflects the love and teachings of Jesus.
Think back to your last random act of kindness! Recall the heartwarming moment you offered support or a friendly gesture without expecting anything in return. Those selfless acts of goodwill, where the only reward is the joy of brightening someone else's day, radiate the best vibes! Is it possible to live without a why, giving and doing unconditionally? This reflects how we perceive ourselves and our desire to live, but it’s more complex than it appears.
The remedy for the fractures in our communities and the chaos of our affections lies in recognizing the profound beauty of God. When we perceive beauty, we are compelled to respond. It’s not merely about believing in God in a vague sense; it’s about embracing the beauty of God allowing it to transform our hearts and lives.
In our culture, words hold great power. Let’s embrace how we use them in texts, conversations, and intentions. Words are vital, transforming us to be more like Jesus. Each word is a step toward inspiration and connection in our journey of faith and love with God and each other.
The ethical teachings of Christianity closely resemble those of Islam, humanism, and Confucianism, emphasizing principles like refraining from theft, respecting others, showing kindness, and practicing forgiveness. These values are present across cultures, but Christianity uniquely highlights that morality goes beyond mere principles. It encourages us to reject falsehoods, embrace truth, and use our anger for justice, reminding us of our identity as beings created in God's image. Read Ephesians 4:31-32
The cultural flashpoints of exhaustion where the middle feel so under represented, due to the hard right/left yelling at each other, the exhaustion comes from this economy, this measure of success, the life script that is being written tells us that we have to keep running, working, and striving for. It also creates exhaustion spiritually where we may be trying so hard to trust God, believe God has our best, but the feeling is still exhaustion that it leaves us tired and angry. What do we do? Get Angry!
We live in a culture where truth is subjective. If truth is a vital ingredient in the recipe for transformation, but it’s subjective, what do we do? Billy Joel nailed it when he said, ‘honesty is a lonely word, everyone is so untrue.’ I mean, at this point, I’d trust a cat to run for president over some of the ‘truths’ I hear. So, what does it even mean to be honest? Is it just another term for telling people what they want to hear?
Jesus proclaimed, ‘As I have been sent into the world, so I send you’—a call for Christ followers to be set apart. This does not imply exclusion; rather, it emphasizes inclusion. This becomes clear as we open our hearts and minds to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Join us as we seek to comprehend the transformation of Christ in our hearts and souls to become people of mercy, grace, and love. (Ephesians 4 and 5)
Isn’t it fascinating how powerless we can feel? We often wrestle with our reactions, words, thoughts, addictions, and emotions. Many of us end the day asking ourselves: "Why did I do that?" or "What made me say that?" It raises an intriguing question: why does self-control consistently elude us?
A major indictment of American Christianity is the lack of humility that individuals encounter among Christians. This perception suggests Christians are ‘prideful and quick to point out faults in others.’ This stands in stark contrast to the message conveyed in Philippians 2:1-11. Bill shows us how the passage, known as the 'Christ Hymn,' provides insight into how goodness necessitates humility.
In a world where meanness and sarcasm are celebrated, Jesus calls us to embrace kindness. The term "kindness" carries a broad meaning in the Bible; at times, it signifies honesty or compassion. Bill explores kindness relationally, intertwining these two elements and examining it through the lens of friendship. Nothing is more humanising or transformative than friendship. Read John 15:7-17
This week, Bill discusses the next fruit of the spirit: patience. In old English, the term longsuffering is used instead of patience. The literal translation of the word "patience" is to "suffer for a long time." That does not sound very encouraging or easy. The character trait of patience means bearing up under difficulty without giving up or giving in to bitterness. There are two kinds of patience: patience under difficult circumstances and patience and grace when dealing with people. Ready for this?
Today, Bill asks, ‘Is Peace possible when we all see are wars, fires, charlatans, and foolishness?’ In a world that often presents peace as an elusive dream, we can go on a journey to discover how we can truly attain it. Peace is not just a destination. It comes to us transcendently. Let us look to Christ for the peace that passes all of our understanding. Read Philippians 4:4-12
This week, Bill takes us deeper into our series on Galatians 5, where we dive into one of the 9 characteristics of the Fruit of the Spirit: Joy! Prepare to deal with some thought-provoking questions: Why does Joy often feel elusive and inconsistent? What makes it such a dynamic emotion? Where do you go to discover Joy in your life? And most importantly, where can you actively bring Joy into your daily experiences today?
This week, Bill embarks on an exploration of one distinct characteristic of the Fruit of the Spirit: Love. Imagine, for a moment, if you possessed a magic wand and could transform just one aspect of your life right now—what would it be? We each dream of shaking up our routines, yet let’s be honest—embracing change can feel uncomfortable and hard. What if love was the motivator?Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch and Tik Tok @believedoubtseek.orgDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, Bill discusses the Advent theme of Joy. God’s Joy delivers good news often overlooked in the Christian message. Many summarize it with phrases like “Love thy neighbor” or “Treat others as you wish to be treated.” While these are valuable, they don’t convey good news. Instead, they represent helpful advice, highlighting the difference between ‘good news’ and ‘good advice.’ God’s joy is truly good news! Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch and Tik Tok @believedoubtseek.orgDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, Bill reflects on Advent's themes, focusing on the gift of peace. It's essential to understand what a relationship with God truly means and how it can feel personal. This enriching experience goes beyond formalities and touches the heart, transforming our lives. Through this transformation, Jesus offers us the peace we deeply desire.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch and Tik Tok @believedoubtseek.orgDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, Bill starts the Advent season by talking about hope. As we look at the complexities of life, we see injustices, suffering, and the gap between those who have resources and those who do not. In these tough times, we often stop to think, “Is it really true that God is with us in our struggles?” This question encourages us to find a deeper understanding of His presence in our lives, even when things feel overwhelming.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurch and Tik Tok @believedoubtseek.orgDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
It’s Thanksgiving week! Join us for a feast as Bill inspires us to explore the meaningful difference between gratitude and thankfulness. Gratitude is a profound, enduring appreciation for the blessings in your life, while thankfulness is an immediate emotional response to a specific act of kindness, typically expressed through a heartfelt "thank you." Embrace this understanding to elevate your holiday spirit!Follow us on: Instagram @allsaintschurch and Tik Tok: @believedoubtseekDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSClick follow and leave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, Bill challenges us to reflect: Is Christianity oppressive? He encourages us to consider why power matters to some evangelicals. George Woodruff inspires us with his powerful quote, “The test of Christianity is not how you love Jesus; it’s how you love Judas.” In Chapter 2 of the Book of James, we hear a call to action as James urges Christ followers to reject favoritism and embrace those who are marginalized, powerless, and poor.
In this episode, Bill takes a look at the recent election and the many questions it has sparked. This topic might stir up some concerns or even lead to a bit of tension for some, but we’re here to talk it through together! He'll explore the idea of Christian Nationalism and what it really means. So, take a deep breath, relax, and join us for this engaging conversation!
On the eve of the election, Bill poses a profound question: Is peace truly possible when life and politics stir up anxiety and fear? The search for peace is critical. While peace with God does not promise an absence of challenges that may disrupt our serenity, it provides a foundation in troubled times. Jesus warned us that trouble and suffering are inevitable, yet we can find strength and solace in our faith. So, how do we navigate this moment? Let's explore the path to peace amidst the chaos.
Bill 'foolishly' explores the troubling political divisiveness in our country. Two opposing sides are absolutely convinced they are making the right choice at the ballot box. They trust their grasp of the world and believe that this system or that system will lead to improvement. But why are both sides so sure of themselves? How do we reach these conclusions? What fuels this perceived foolishness? Understanding these questions is crucial for bridging our divides and fostering meaningful dialogue. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurchDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Psalm 46:10 is a profound reminder of the hope we need when we feel overwhelmed and anxious. Bill breaks down the verse into a practical application that we can use daily to help us look to God during trouble and pain.
This week, Bill brings part 2 of What are the Rules? He is looking into how wisdom is more than just following rules; it's about forging a profound connection and letting it inspire every part of our lives. Check out Proverbs 8.Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurchDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, We ask, 'What are the rules?' Please join us as Bill talks about wisdom. He asks; how it is different from knowledge? Why isn't having a moral compass enough? What do we do when the rules don't apply? There is a bit of a cliffhanger, so be sure to look for part 2 later in the week. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurchDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
Today, Bill is asking, "What is the difference between being a Christian and having an American Identity?" He takes a lesson from the Book of Daniel to understand what it means to live as an exile. Finally, he asks five questions to get the conversation going. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurchDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!
In part 2 of Spiritual or Religious, Bill looks at a Pew Research study on American Christian’s view of church attendance and the significance of the findings. Also, the discussion on the various elements of why a transformative relationship with Christ needs 3 things. Stay tuned for ways to join our virtual community. Follow us on Instagram @allsaintschurchDownload our app: App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id6695736597Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.subsplashconsulting.s_SG7CDSLeave us a review wherever you listen to this podcast!Thank you!
When people say, "I am spiritual, not religious," they may be trying to separate from the negative aspects of organized religion and connect with their spirituality in a more personal way. This statement raises questions about personal growth and the meaning of being "spiritual." Read Acts 2:42-47, and Psalm 95
The disciples were fully prepared to form the early church and spread the kingdom of God on earth by knowing and proclaiming Christ. Trained by Jesus himself and having witnessed his crucifixion and resurrection, they were not lacking in motivation or readiness. What more could they possibly need? Read: Acts 1:8
We examine 3 case studies showcasing the impact of the gospel. The Apostle Paul was sent as a missionary to Philippi in Macedonia to establish a church. These interactions involve 3 different individuals and provide insight into the future of the church's mission to reach all people. Acts 16:13-33
The gospel's impact extends beyond our private lives, influencing how we allocate resources, manage time, structure routines, and promote justice and compassion. Seeking out stories and conversations makes the message of Christ real and powerful. Let’s look at Acts 16:13-33 for insight into how the gospel transforms lives.
The believers in the book of Acts were devoted to the teachings of the apostles because it held personal meaning for them. These teachings had transformed their lives, and they were being used by God to transform others. Spiritual growth and worship were top priorities for the early church in Acts. Can we say the same for our own communities today? Let's examine why this was crucial for the early followers of Jesus and how it can be relevant to us today. (Acts 2:40-47)
In this podcast, we are going to talk about how the church today is wrought with suspicion and has a reputation for being judgemental and out of date. There are many who have left the church. Instead of thinking about getting people to come back or come to the church, let’s be people who bring the conversation about Jesus. It is about getting to know Jesus, who Jesus is, and what Jesus wants from us. What Jesus has come to tell us. The church is the spiritual community where we gather to worship Jesus. We are not to worship the church and admire those who are spiritual. Read Acts 2:40-47
The story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10: 25-37 asks, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus tells a story and emphasizes that we should actively look for opportunities to be a neighbor instead of waiting for them to come to us. We must demonstrate the values of the Kingdom of God to our neighbors and love as one. The highest calling in life is to be a good neighbor. But what does it mean to be a neighbor and love as one? Where do we find the power to do this?
Psalm 37 is a treasured and timeless scripture that has deeply resonated with me over the years. I often think of it as the "Holy Highway" because of the invaluable guidance and wisdom it provides, which can be applied to our lives today.
In this political season, we're seeing both foolish and wise people who believe they are voting for the right person, thinking their system will make the world better. The scriptures say we are born with foolishness, which we see in children and in ourselves as adults. So, how do we avoid foolishness? Psalm 14 gives us some good advice.
In our pursuit of a stronger bond with God, try taking a compelling retrospective look at the time you may have devoted to Him. It's imperative for us to deeply contemplate the profound intertwining of our life with God's unwavering presence.
The upcoming election is on everyone's mind, dominating news, commercial ads, and social media. We feel the tension as our politically divided nation and church anticipate the post-election outcome. What is our role in all of this, and how can we be the voice of reason in a turbulent political season? We will pick up Summer in Psalms next week.
Have you ever felt fear in your life? What are your current fears? When we see evil things happening in the world, we worry about how unstable it is. Evil and hate create fear. How do you deal with fear in your life? Psalm 34 provides insightful thoughts about God's kindness, how to overcome fear, and how to find peace in Him.
Psalm 91 offers solace from life's intense trials. It is a psalm of trust and meditation, emphasizing God's close relationship and the profound protection He offers.
Psalm 27 emphasizes that fear and anxiety stem from the worry of losing or missing out on something. It also highlights the promise of never being alone, providing a reassuring perspective on life's challenges. We get advice that encourages focusing on visualizing a satisfying future instead of dwelling on potential worries that may never materialize. That isn't enough and won't last. This Psalm teaches us to learn to dwell, gaze, and seek God, and realize that He is near.
Psalm 113 says that God is awesome (113:4-6): "The Lord is high above all nations; His glory is above the heavens. Who is like the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high...?" A lot of the challenges we face in our Christian life might come from not fully understanding how amazing God is. Maybe we need to change our perspective.
The podcast this week is a result of a conversation I had with my daughter about the Bible and what we believe about it. Let me say, beliefs must be transformed into character for change to happen. Today, we are going to delve into how the Bible can bring about changed character in our lives. Let’s look at how to use it to achieve transformation in our life.Read Psalm 119
The Psalms teach us to pray and express our heart's deepest longings to God. Prayer is a transformative journey. When we purposefully slow down, center ourselves in the present, and connect with God's caring presence, we delve into the depths of who God is. We learn God’s essence, embrace God’s rhythm and discipline, and gain daily assurance from prayer. Join us for our continued series, Summer in Psalms.Read: Psalms 4 and 5
The Psalms are mostly prayers, and you can learn how to pray by reading them. Psalm 1 is like the starting point for prayer in the book. Even though it doesn't directly talk about prayer, it's more like a meditation. It compares a person who meditates to a tree, to help you understand the concept of meditation.Read: Psalm 1
In many traditional cultures, the prevailing belief is that the primary cause of most evil in the world is an excessively high view of oneself, leading to cruelty, abusiveness, and wars. However, in modern Western culture, especially in the United States, the prevailing belief is quite different. Today, many believe that people misbehave due to a lack of self-esteem.This issue is deeply ingrained in us. It sounds like this: "instead of holding people accountable for making moral judgments, we should focus on building them up and helping them feel better about themselves." Progressives prefer not to condemn behaviors, while conservatives tend to judge people based on their behaviors. What do we do with self-esteem? Read I Corinthians 3:21-4:7
Have you ever wondered what a heart looks like when it's been transformed by grace? It's easy to talk about it, but seeing it in action is a whole other thing. So, let's dive in and explore what a transformed heart truly means and how to get it.Read Colossians 3:9-17
In the Bible, friends are often described as "a friend as your own soul." This biblical imagery of friendship goes beyond mere agreement, sexual connection, or shared opinions. Souls knit together implies that you share common loves, passions, beliefs, and interests. Unfortunately, in Western culture, we often prioritize romantic and success-oriented relationships, which often leads to friendship getting overlooked.Read John 15:12-15
What is the common-sense definition of love? To serve other people rather than yourself. If the reason you are kind and generous to people and your motive for doing it is to count or matter or feel good, it’s really about you. There is no love in it. In Hebrew, the word grace translates to “loving kindness." We need to understand grace to understand love. Take a listen.Read 1 Corinthians 3:2-8
Maybe you are already wondering if you have time for this podcast. Not because of the content, but rather because of the time it takes away from something else you feel you should be doing. Perhaps you are taking a break from work or you are multitasking, but feel that you shouldn’t because deadlines and obligations are weighing on you this very minute. Perhaps change can happen for you with a small investment of 17m and 51s.
From his book Margin, Richard Swenson argues: ‘Life in modern day America is essentially devoid of time and space. Chronic overloading is the culprit: margin is the cure.’In a culture where most people feel overwhelmed, overcommitted, and overworked people are willing to pay money for anything that shaves off minutes or does the thinking for you. Why? time famine; and decision fatigue.
According to James, vulnerability involves using confession and reclamation. These tools, though making us vulnerable, are key for healing and restoration. Despite the discomfort, they offer a path to hope and growth. So, embracing vulnerability through these tools can lead to a deeper, richer community. Read James 5:16-20
Jesus comes to us with His unwavering grace and boundless mercy, offering us love and forgiveness beyond measure. In His presence, we find solace and hope, knowing that He walks with us through every joy and trial, guiding us towards light and peace. His love is truly unending.
This week, James discusses how to fight fair. We can observe frequent conflicts and misunderstandings on social media reflect immaturity and pettiness. It's disheartening that respectful discussions are rare. James discusses two types of wisdom: one divisive and another unifying. Prioritizing transcendent wisdom fosters unity, repairing relationships and fostering peace and understanding. Let’s be peacemakers who inspire positivity and harmony, which is essential in today's divisive world.Read James 4:1-3
The wisdom of God cultivates peace through righteousness. Wisdom is about uniting people, enhancing relationships, and resolving conflicts. Ultimate wisdom bridges gaps, fosters harmony, and facilitates connections between individuals, nurturing peaceful coexistence and resolving differences. We need God’s wisdom today. Read James 3:13-18
James emphasizes the significance of our words and their impact. James instructs us on the importance of being mindful of the words we speak, recognizing their influence not only on others but also on ourselves. By highlighting the power of words in communication, James encourages us to use our words wisely and constructively. This biblical guidance serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with the ability to communicate effectively. By understanding and applying the wisdom found in the book of James, we can cultivate healthier relationships, promote understanding, and foster personal growth through the positive expression of our words.Read James 3:1-12
What is the difference between “spirituality” and “faith.” I hear this all the time, ‘I am spiritual but not religious.’ What does that mean? James gives us a good way to see the difference.A mere profession of faith in Jesus isn’t enough to prove that you are right with God you have to show some concrete changes in your life. Therefore, “we are rescued by faith alone but not by a faith that remains alone.” James says we aren’t earning a relationship with Jesus, we are heirs to a relationship with Him. A HUGE DIFFERENCE. We are rescued by grace; when you become a believer you become an heir. You are adopted into the family, and you become a child of the Father who is now your God. Read James 2:18-26
James emphasizes that true service involves both words and actions, suggesting that the Bible calls for more than just verbal commitment. If we focus solely on the spiritual needs and neglect the material needs of others, we may be missing the essence of Christ's teachings. Highlighting the deliberate act of choosing the poor, James underscores the proactive nature of service, urging Christ followers to prioritize caring for those in need rather than waiting for their struggles to affect our own lives.Read James 2:5-17
There are many things in the Bible that people will say, “I don’t like that, it offends me. I will believe the things I like and reject the things I want to reject.” If you have a view of a Bible like that, how can God ever contradict you and challenge you. How can it humble you? If you have a God that never contradicts you, challenges you, or irritates you: you don’t have a living God. You’ve got a designer God, not the real God. If you can’t humbly accept it, you will struggle with a relationship with God.Read James 1:19-21
We all are aware that life can be difficult, it is inevitable because it's life. We all have experienced how difficult life can be. James is saying be strong and deal with it. The truth is, some people get wise and tender and others get bitter and broken.James encourages us to meet these problems with faith, wisdom and self-control. It’s inevitable that people will ask this question, “where do you get the strength to do this? Where do you get the resources?”The average person wants to face it and turn the tide and be better, but how? In these verses we see where we get the strength to do this. We are going to see that you can’t just suck it up or screw it up. We need something to help us face life. There is a motivation and a power you can have by following Jesus. Read James 1:16-18
As the scriptures come alive in you, they become food and air, no longer a book of instructions. The same force that planted new life in you asks you to keep coming back to it. Now you have the potential to be a very different person; you are liberated! Listen to what the scriptures tell you. They will free you completely! How do we approach it? James says, we must receive it and obey it.James gives us an amazingly profound, wise insight into why many of us find that the Bible doesn’t liberate us.Read: James 1:19-25
James will show us that God tests us, but he never tempts us. He may give us a circumstance but if that leads us to sin it’s not God who is tempting us, because every test is a temptation. What we are learning here are several things about temptation and how sin works in our lives. To say that sin is not something that is relevant to talk about would be very naïve. The only way to break the hold of whatever is in your soul is to show it an object of deeper affection…the only way through is to fall in love with Jesus! Read James 1:9-15
James says, when you get into trials and suffering the main thing you need is wisdom. How are you going to get it? The first thing to ask: “do I have the wisdom to handle anything life gives me?”Wisdom is required because we do not always know how to persevere, nor do we find the will to rejoice in what the future holds while enduring suffering and trials. Wisdom must come from God. It is not automatic, it must be something we ask for.Read: James 1:5-8
The book of James is like some of the wisdom literature in the OT (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes) and it is like a continuation of the sermon on the mount that Jesus gave when he was alive. Wisdom literature is where you take the principles and apply them to see how they work out in real life situations. James takes the gospel of Jesus and asks, “how should we live this out?” James helps us learn to “count it all joy” when we encounter trouble and suffering. When we learn how to handle trouble, we will find the joy James is promising. Read James 1:1-4
The Christmas story is about being homeless, in exile, rejected, and marginalized. We have sentimentalized and sanitized the Christmas story: Baby Jesus, furry animals, shining star. That is not the story. The story is quite brutal. It tells how God, in Christ, lost his home so we could be home with Him. Read Isaiah 35:1-10
The spirit of Christmas is so much more than how we experience it today. Jesus isn’t just human, he isn’t just divine. He is both: God and man. That means he isn’t just a prophet or sage to tell you how to find God. He is God come to find you. Christianity is a religion of grace and mercy. It deals with the selfishness, ambition, and sin in our own heart and lovingly makes us aware of it. It brings us to repentance and confession and gives us hope for a life that is now and a life that is to come. This is a faith for everybody. This is the spirit of ChristmasRead Isaiah 11:1-10
This is a very famous passage in the book Isaiah. This really gives us a powerful understanding of the meaning of Christmas from the perspective of the first Testament. Tim Keller says it like this, ‘this is telling us that Christmas means an unexpected, ultimate light through the God-man which can only be received by grace.’This passage tells us a couple things about the mystery of God in Christmas. I say mystery, because there is so much underlying the Christmas story that we don’t see, haven’t heard, or quite frankly, ignore. We see the wrapping paper and the bow. This event, the arrival of the light into the darkness was startling, mind-blowing, and quite literally took the world by surprise.Read: Isaiah 9:1-7
You can’t say to Jesus come in as my savior, stay out as my Lord. He is both. Crown him or kill him. In Luke 19:28-40 the people treated Jesus like a King. This passage goes after the heart, because it tells us how to have an encounter with Jesus as it explains what Jesus came to do. Jesus can’t change your life and transform your life if you don’t regard him as King of your life. It’s important to understand what the Bible says about Jesus the Messiah. It shows that he is a human hope. The idea of Messianic hero that comes back to save everyone and everything is the stories all humans love to read over and over again. Read: Luke 19:28-40
The heart is an organ that cannot be worked directly, it is worked indirectly through the muscles in your legs, arms, etc. This is why exercise is good for you. The same is true spiritually, the heart, interior person, is worked indirectly through spiritual exercises (bible study, prayer, etc). One of the most profound, yet often ignored, spiritual exercises is the Lord’s supper. It’s one of the two sacraments that the protestant church has observed historically. The other is baptism. We are going to look at Luke 22:14-20 and ask the question, how does the exercise of communion allow us to grow spiritually? Read Luke 22:14-20
We are looking at the disciplines: reading scripture, prayer, meaning in life, and today we are looking at generosity. When the bible talks about coming into relationship with Jesus, it changes your relationship with money. Part of the experience of a relationship with Christ is what you do with your money. One of the glaring things about this passage is how the only wealth that is permanent is God’s Kingdom. All other wealth is temporary. A wise investor puts it all in the Kingdom of God. Our time, gifts, money, and resources are spent toward things that will last. This is what is logical according to Jesus. However, we struggle with living this out. Let’s look at a wealth that sets us free from our enslavement to money. Read: Luke 12:13-21, 32-34
As a follower of Christ, a question that is asked frequently, "how do I cultivate my spiritual life?" We read scripture; we can see our work as an aspect of your calling. We should also pray.A lot of us, when we hear the word “prayer,” come to all different kinds of conclusions about what it is. When we think about prayer it is really a deep look into our deepest desires, longings, and aspirations. Those things that get at the core of what we want in life. Let's take a look at how to cultivate and shape those desires through prayer.Read: Luke 11:1-13
Jesus gives us the tools and power that is available to us to live this life with poise and joy. And we all know, this isn’t an easy world to live in. We have resources to help us live in this world.Jesus sends his followers into the world; Christ followers are sent people (John 20:21). When Jesus calls people, he sends them into the world to serve others; just like he did. This is a resource for us that helps us live in the world. We can be persuasive without persuasion. It’s the understanding that helping others flourish is life giving for the other, as much as it is for us. Read: Luke 5:4-25
This is a familiar passage of scripture, we read the Devil confronting Jesus and running through temptations of need, wealth, and power. Jesus deals with this through the Word of God. We are going to look at dealing with the trials, temptations, and difficulties of life using the Scriptures. What disciplines are necessary to grow in our relationship with Jesus? There is an enemy of our soul that wants to make us ineffective, weak, and vulnerable. There are tools and power available to us to live this life with poise and joy. We are going to learn the complexity of evil and the strategies of evil. Finally, we will learn to defeat evil using the truth of the scriptures. Read: Luke 4:1-13
We now come to the phrase, “for yours is the kingdom, power, and glory, forever and ever...amen.” This phrase doesn’t sound like a prayer, it sounds more like a statement of what is and is to come. There are a lot of things we are asking for in the Lord’s prayer, “daily bread, deliverance from evil…” at the end, we just rest in God. We enjoy God. Not asking for anything, just resting in everything we need. Read: Psalm 27:1-14
When Jesus gave us instruction on how to pray, he was teaching us a way to approach God that has us realize we are not alone, and we can enjoy his presence daily. The phrase, 'lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil,’ is talking about the times in our lives when we feel like life is a struggle. Temptation brings out something in us that brings out our flaws. We at times feel parts of our life aren’t inspiring or good, so we get tempted, 'lead us not into temptation,' means help me with those thoughts and desires inside me that are waging war on my soul.Read: Psalm 73:1-3, 13-16, 21-26
We are looking at the place in the Lord’s prayer where Jesus says, “forgive us our debts.” Ps.51 is probably the most famous prayer of confession in the Bible. Repentance is the kind of prayer, in an ongoing way, will enable us to be transformed from the inside out. Some of us feel like we have nothing to repent about; but we have a sense when something isn’t right, or someone calls us out on something. And sometimes we don’t know how to change. Asking our debts to be forgiven is the process for change.Read Psalm 51
Prayer is a transformative experience when we take the time to intentionally slow down, focus on the moment, and experience God who cares so deeply about us. This week, we are digging into this phrase of the Lord’s prayer: ‘give us this day our daily bread.’ We will learn the rhythm, practice, and daily confidence we can have when we practice daily prayer.Read: Psalm 4, and 5:1-3
There are plenty of people who would like to know how to pray and what to pray. Jesus answers that and gives us the Lord’s Prayer. We are looking at the phrase, ‘your will be done.’ In the text, we see we have an example of Jesus’ humanity. 'Your will be done,’ is a prayer we read Jesus praying. This phrase is important because it challenges the culture that says, 'no one can tell me what to think, what to do, or how to be, that’s my choice.’ And we all know that choice is a very powerful weapon we must have to maintain our own identity. How do we pray, your will be done?Read: Matthew 26:36-46
Each week we are taking a phrase of the Lord’s Prayer and going to another part of the Bible to make an application. The instruction Jesus gives on how to pray is so rich, we need to look deeply into the Scriptures to understand it fully.
Today, we are looking at ‘your kingdom come.’ When Jesus says in Luke 6:20-26, ‘…for yours is the Kingdom of God…’ We need to understand what that means. As Americans when we think of a Kingdom, we don’t have a very thorough understanding because we don’t have a King. A Kingdom is an administration, it’s a way of life, a culture instituted by the king.
When one comes under God’s authority, rule, way of life, his will; when we seek his priorities, we flourish. We become everything we are created to be. Take a listen.
Read: Luke 6:20-26
We ask, ‘how do we pray?’ Jesus gave us the Lord’s Prayer. The phrase, ‘hallowed by thy name’ means to treat God with reverence and awe. It is to be completely transfixed on the beauty and glory of God. Let’s look at this phrase and how we apply it to our prayer life.Read: Psalm 63:1-11
We are in need of a passionate spirituality that is robust and able to overcome and withstand obstacles, while taking hold of opportunities that will lead to a vitality that is attractive to all who believe, doubt, and seek. Prayer is vital to our passion and needs to be our first reflexive action to every aspect of our life.
Application questions: 1. What are the spiritual disciplines you need to cultivate to keep you connected to God in prayer? 2. What are the practices of self-care you need to attend to your body and nurture your soul? 3. What core relationships do you need to support you on your journey? 4. What are the gifts, passions, and burdens within you that God wants you to express for the blessing of others?
Read: Galatians 3:26-4:7
In our text, the Apostle Paul begins with prayer and ends with prayer encouraging us to pray. He wants us to see the reality of prayer, and a world where God is active and committed.
It could be said that a lot of us struggle with prayer: the consistency, reasons, necessity, and doubt that it really gets to God. There is something about prayer that is unnatural. What can be done?
Read: Colossians 4:2-6
We are constantly being challenged to rethink and assess what it means to live with every aspect of our lives surrendered to Jesus Christ. How do we express this in our society? What does engagement feel like?
God’s rescue plan involves us converting everything over to his plan and his will. Following Jesus encompasses every aspect of our lives. In our text, we are learning about roles: husbands, fathers, mothers, wives, children, employers, and employees.
This is a controversial text! Take a listen!
Colossians 3:18 - 4:1
In any relationship there inevitably are going to be shifts and adjustments to the rhythm of how the relationship works and thrives. There will be modifications and sacrifices that will need to be made for the health and vibrancy of the relationship.
The same is true in a relationship with Jesus. Maturity in our faith will require us to make changes and adjustments in our relationship with God. If this is the case, then how does the reality of being in relationship with Jesus impact and change my life?
Read Colossians 3:9-17
A good way to think about a relationship with Jesus is to view it as an ongoing conversation. We live our lives in a stream of conversation; Christ follower or not we are constantly engaging in conversation.
We take our experiences, choices (past and present) we filter them through stories in a way that help make sense of the life we are living in this world. If we look at all the different conversations we have, it wouldn’t take too long before common themes began to show up. For example, we are all trying to get to the other side of brokenness. We recognize there are places of conflict in our life, we see that our life and world aren’t working out how we would like them to be. How do we use these stories to get the healing, hope, and love we are looking for?
‘Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.’ Colossians 3:2
Read Colossians 3:1-10
In Colossians 2:17 there are two words we will focus on, 'shadow and substance.' (hello, Plato) We can be enslaved in the shadows by focusing on good things given by God pointing us to something greater, so we think. How foolish it is to dwell just on the shadow when we have the reality, the substance of which is Christ himself. All of these forms point to Jesus. Take a listen and discover the freedom we have in Christ.
Read: Colossians 2:16-23
Augustine wrote: “My heart is restless, O God, until it rests in you.” Sometimes feelings come up about following Christ that cause a certain emptiness, When we have doubts, we may ask, “is this Jesus thing working for me? Am I getting all there is out of life?” “Is this really real?”
There is a tendency to go back to something that is familiar to us from our past. We want answers about the big questions: purpose, origin, identity, relationships, and the future. When we feel doubt in the area of faith, we are going to try to put something else there.
In Colossians 2:5-16 we learn that there is a person who fills our lives with power and wholeness in a way that we can’t find anywhere else.
Following Christ is a maturity process. As we walk with Christ we are faced with challenges, choices, and disciplines. How does maturity ever happen? It comes by understanding hope.
Many paths to God? I John 4:1-10
Many people believe all religions are equal paths to God.That’s an assertion not an argument, why should one believe that? A person might respond and say, “no one has a lock on the truth, we see pieces, no one dares to say that they see the whole picture.” The argument is all religions see parts of the truth none of them see the whole truth. No one should insist they have all the truth and that’s how we should view all religions. What do we do? How do we respond?
There are many distractions in the world, many things that pull us away from seeking, knocking, and asking good questions and maturing in the faith.
The text is telling Christ followers to “center your life on the greatness of Jesus Christ.” Why? Why not treat following Jesus as any other thing you add in your life? You are presently listening to this podcast, you may go to church, talking with friends about your faith, volunteer. Why isn’t that enough? Why does everything have to center on Jesus? It comes down to the greatness of who Jesus is.
There are many stories of people who have surrendered to Jesus and were changed radically. We are going to ask a question: what is so great about Jesus?
Please join us for a new series in the book of Colossians.
The underlining purpose of this letter, is to tell humanity that we all are seeking who we really are. We want a purposeful life, a meaningful life. We seek for something outside of ourselves. We do this, whether belief in Christ or not.
The assumption of Christianity believes that only Jesus brings us into the fullness of self. Everything else is a poor substitute, everything else leads us away from being truly human.
Read: Colossians 1:9-14
CS Lewis said, ‘God isn’t out to make nicer people, he is out to make new people.’
As we conclude our series in Matthew 5, we are looking at the characteristic of being pure in heart.
Christian faith is not here to make human beings better, it is here to make a new model of human being. Religious people only focus on externals, not a deep transformational work that happens in internally. How can you tell?
Read Matthew 5:8 Listen to a song by Lauren Daigle called: Love like This
'Blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy.' - Matthew 5:7
This becomes the basis for all our relationships because we have a relationship with Jesus which is based on mercy. Mercy is different than grace. You can have grace without mercy, but you can’t have mercy without grace. The word grace means to help someone who doesn’t deserve it. Mercy embraces the characteristics of being generous, forgiving others, having compassion for the suffering, and providing healing of every kind. It is to be moved by somebody else’s pain to alleviate that person’s suffering. Grace without mercy is possible because you could give help to somebody who is underserving, without feeling for that person.
What does righteousness mean? It means approved, to be right with somebody, to be received, to be accepted. Jesus said, blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. There is an energy that pulses through you when you are considered right, qualified, or good. There is an ache that pulses through you when you aren’t. Where do you get your approval from?Read Matthew 5:6, Is 55:1
New series: Blessed are you, when…In Matthew chapter 5 Jesus delivered what has been labeled the "Kingdom Manifesto." A manifesto is where you put it all out there for people to grasp, ponder, and ultimately understand. The Beatitudes are where Jesus introduces a new and radical philosophy of relating to Father God. Jesus taught about a loving God who loves everyone, not just veterans of faith.Join us for the next 4 weeks as we are shocked and challenged to learn what is radically different from what we observe of religion today.
Can you relate to this? We get desperate to be insiders? We don’t want to be beautiful for beauty’s sake, we want beauty because it gives us certain access. We don’t want to be smart; we want to be smart so we can be with people who are on the inside. We want wealth because wealth gives us access to power. What happens when we can’t get insider status? Our brokenness and pride come to the surface. That can get messy. Read 2 Kings 5:1-15
When God called Elisha to carry on the ministry of Elijah, it gave him clarity and a focus to his life that he had never felt before. What is a call or calling? Isn’t that for people who go into church work as a profession? What relevance does this have for you and me? Read: 1 Kings 19:19-21, 2 Kings 2:9-15
Fear is real. Do any of these strike a chord? A fear of failure, disappointment, not being good enough and not being liked, worried that I don’t know who I am, that I might get sick. Am I going to say the wrong thing? Will I get the job I want? People of faith struggle with fear and anxiety. The question with our fears and anxieties is do I have something big enough in my life to put those fears and anxieties in their place? Read 1 Kings 19:1-18
We can’t be spiritually neutral, we must work out our doubts, seek to understand, and trust that will lead us to belief. Jesus gave up all his power for us on the Cross, he asks us not to be spiritually neutral. Question: Who do you say Jesus is?
Is God able to break through your uncertainty/certainty and experience the miracles He wants to do in your life and the life of those around you? Do you see how the living God looks utterly different than the dead idols we try to prop up around us? That’s how we know we are being confronted by a living God; He pushes back. If you don’t allow God to surprise or thrill you, or to be beyond your understanding, then you don’t have God, you have a god you have created. And that won’t sustain you.
There is an underlying scepticism in the world today, a certain fear and mistrust. It’s something we can’t shake. There is a loss of trust and a deep polarisation that is fuelled by social media. We still have a climate change problem, terrorist threats, and the ongoing issue of civil rights. So, it seems our hope is hanging by a thread. But alas, there is a hope that is sure. A hope we can sense. The biblical word for hope means a profound certainty. This hope is available to you and me through the reality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
There is always something that is serving as a functional king/lord at some point in our life, it is always telling us what to do. It’s not about removing the thing(s) that have control over us, the issue is having the right lord. Let’s consider Jesus, as the right lord that wants us to flourish.
An aspect of Christianity that is attractive is the invitation to think and process the words of Jesus and the Christian scriptures (Bible). The verse found in Jude 1:22 ‘be merciful to those who doubt’ is an invitation to press in and challenge your doubts. The Bible should argue with you and cause you to think. There are many questions we have about what is written. That’s healthy! That’s why the 40 days of Lent are important for us to engage in the words and message of Jesus.
Read John 20:24-31
“How could this be the Messiah?” How could Jesus be the one to usher in the Kingdom of God? He dies a criminals’ death, he is young, he is destroyed by his enemies. Wouldn’t that be considered weak? No real Savior can be like that.
But this is an upside down kingdom.
Mark 14:25 “I will not drink again the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
Jesus is radically committed to those who trust in him. This is contractual language.
This is the highest priority of Jesus’ life. Hiscommitment to you is highest priority, there is no other priority in his lifethanto get you connected to God. That's a radical commitment!
Read Mark 14:22-27
In Matthew 21:28-39, we hear Jesus make a very powerful statement, 'Truly I say to you, the prostitutes and tax collectors will enter the kingdom of God before you.' What does this mean for the moral and good?
The issue that Jesus is going after is how our hearts want to forget everything we have is a gift, and therefore we can take no credit for it. Why do our hearts tend to be this way?
Weeks before Easter, followers of Jesus are to do some disciplined thinking about the death of Christ and what it means. Jesus is to be understood for who he is, not who we think he is. We are using Jesus’ own statements about his death, we see who Jesus is, not a designer Jesus that we want to work for us.
Read: John 12:20-33
Envy is being unhappy at other people’s happiness. To be a person of envy puts you in a class that nobody wants to be affiliated with. There is nothing more humiliating than having to admit to someone that you are envious
'ENVY IS THE CONSUMING DESIRE to have everybody else be as unsuccessful as you are.' ~Frederick Buechner
Read: Proverbs 23:17-18; Psalm 73:1-3, 17-26
A theme that runs through the Proverbs and the whole Bible is the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is a term many wrestle with; scriptures like ‘the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,’ and ‘the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.’ Why is the fear of the Lord so important, and what is it? The fear of the Lord is a life rearranging, joyful, awe, and wonder before the greatness of who God is and what he has done. So why use the term fear?
Read: Proverbs 3:5-6; 9:10; 16:6; 19:23; 20:9
You can make or break your life on your ability to make right choices. Is this the person I should marry? Should I hire this person? is this right career for me? is this the right amount of freedom to give my child at this age? is this the right person to confide in?
Every one of those situations have many options, most all of them are moral, legal and allowable. However, most of them aren’t wise, so we need guidance to make decisions.
The questions is “how do we get God’s guidance?” So, when all these choices are before us, we know what the right course of action we should take.
Proverbs 11:3; 12:5,15; 15:22; 16:3,9,25,33
Today we are looking at one of the main themes of the book of Proverbs, using anger for good. Handling anger in yourself and in other people is the goal. There are some things we need to know about anger in order to be wise. Anger is an explosive emotion; it is the dynamite of the soul. Anger has the power to obliterate things.
Read: Proverbs 14:29-30; 15:1, 18; 19:19; 16:32; 24:29; 25:21-22; Ephesians 4:26
Self-control is important if we are to make wise decisions. If a person lacks self-control not only, are they going to mess up their life, they are going to mess up the lives of the people around them.
Read: Proverbs 18:10; 25:28; Titus 2:11-14
We all at certain times, have a tough time understanding and dealing with the deep, conflicting, powerful, confusing, feelings that roll through our heart. Sometimes, we don’t feel we have any power over it, we feel helpless. We ask, how did we get to feeling like that? We know there is something wrong, and we don’t know what to do about it.
Read: Proverbs 18:14; 14:30; 12:25; 14:13; 15:13; 14:10
The world has rapidly changed since 2019. The church can no longer look at 2019 as something to get back to. It’s different now, and we must learn what being the church is. The question isn’t, ‘how do we get people back, we need to ask how do we go to where the people are?’
As Christ followers we are encouraged us to center our life on the greatness of Jesus Christ. Why? Why not treat Christ following as any other thing you add-on to your life? Why isn’t attending a church gathering enough? Why does my whole life have to center around Jesus? The answer is his greatness.
There is a sense of the unknown and fear as we emerge from the pandemic. Many of us feel like we are looking through a glass darkly. The book of Colossians is a letter of hope, peace, and love. Join us as we explore how this letter can turn our fear into courage.
As we reimagine All Saints, we have 10 questions that we want you to engage as we live into our new meeting rhythm as a community. Email us with your answers and thoughts at: info@believedoubtseek.org